EPR Systems https://eprsystems.com/ We do IT better Mon, 20 Nov 2023 16:53:43 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://eprsystems.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/epr_fab.svg EPR Systems https://eprsystems.com/ 32 32 The New NERIS Standard: How EPR is Preparing for a Smooth Transition  https://eprsystems.com/the-new-neris-standard-how-epr-is-preparing-for-a-smooth-transition/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=the-new-neris-standard-how-epr-is-preparing-for-a-smooth-transition https://eprsystems.com/the-new-neris-standard-how-epr-is-preparing-for-a-smooth-transition/#respond Wed, 13 Sep 2023 13:29:32 +0000 https://eprsystems.com/?p=6108 Why All-In-One Software Makes a Crucial Difference in How Departments Operate The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) plans to replace NFIRS with a new National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) platform by 2025. The new standard is set to modernize how emergency response agencies collect and share data using a secure, cloud-hosted system. It aims to […]

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The New NERIS Standard: How EPR is Preparing for a Smooth Transition 

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) plans to replace NFIRS with a new National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) platform by 2025. The new standard is set to modernize how emergency response agencies collect and share data using a secure, cloud-hosted system. It aims to create a unified platform for reporting and analyzing fire, hostile, and disaster events.  

 

You can view the original announcement here

 

EPR Systems’ Commitment to a Seamless Transition 

 

EPR Systems is dedicated to ensuring that our customers can utilize the full potential of NERIS without disruptions to their operations. We recognize the importance of a smooth transition, and our team is actively working to provide the necessary training, support, and integration solutions. 

 

Our approach includes: 

  • Comprehensive Training: We will offer in-depth training programs to familiarize our customers with the NERIS platform, ensuring they can leverage its capabilities effectively. 

  • Technical Support: Our dedicated support team will be available to assist customers with any issues or questions they may encounter during the transition process. 

  • Customized Integration: We will work closely with our customers to integrate NERIS seamlessly into their existing systems, minimizing disruptions and maximizing efficiency. 

  • Stay Informed: We stay up-to-date with the latest developments and updates related to NERIS to provide our customers with the most accurate and timely information. 

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As the emergency response landscape evolves, EPR Systems remains devoted to ensuring that our customers can continue to respond effectively to emergencies with our software.  

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Why All-In-One Software Makes a Crucial Difference in How Departments Operate  https://eprsystems.com/why-all-in-one-software-makes-a-crucial-difference-in-how-departments-operate/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=why-all-in-one-software-makes-a-crucial-difference-in-how-departments-operate https://eprsystems.com/why-all-in-one-software-makes-a-crucial-difference-in-how-departments-operate/#respond Wed, 06 Sep 2023 14:21:03 +0000 https://eprsystems.com/?p=6073 Why All-In-One Software Makes a Crucial Difference in How Departments Operate In today’s fast-paced world, where every second counts, effective coordination and communication are paramount for emergency response teams. Fire and EMS officials are the unsung heroes who bravely face life-threatening situations to protect and save lives. To bolster their efforts, having an all-in-one system […]

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Why All-In-One Software Makes a Crucial Difference
in How Departments Operate

In today’s fast-paced world, where every second counts, effective coordination and communication are paramount for emergency response teams. Fire and EMS officials are the unsung heroes who bravely face life-threatening situations to protect and save lives. To bolster their efforts, having an all-in-one system tailored to their unique needs is not just beneficial but crucial. This is where EPR Systems steps in, offering a comprehensive suite of products designed to revolutionize how fire and EMS officials operate. 

Streamlined Communication 

When an emergency strikes, clear and timely communication is crucial for effective response efforts. An all-in-one system like the FireWorks platform ensures seamless communication between fire operations and EMS operations fostering swift decision-making and a well-coordinated response. 

Real-Time Data Sharing 

Accurate information is the foundation of effective emergency management. EPR Systems provides fire and EMS officials with real-time data sharing capabilities. This means that critical information, such as building schematics, hazardous material locations, and patient medical histories, can be accessed on the spot, allowing responders to make informed decisions that save lives and minimize risks. 

Seamless Documentation and Reporting 

Effective emergency response doesn’t end with the incident itself. Accurate documentation and reporting are essential for post-incident analysis, training, and ongoing improvement. EPR’s integrated documentation features allow fire and EMS officials to easily record incident details, patient information, and response actions. This comprehensive documentation ensures accountability, facilitates regulatory compliance, and contributes to the continuous enhancement of response strategies. 

 

EPR’s All-In-One Products: 

  • FireWorks – A records management software (RMS) so flexible and robust you’ll feel like it’s built just for you and your community. 
  • MedicWorks – Electronic Patient Care Reporting (ePCR) software for fast access to your patient’s medical profiles. 
  • StaffWorks – Scheduling, staff management and time-tracking capabilities fitted to the needs of your agency. 
  • CommunityWorks – Connect with citizens using two-way communication to build comprehensive safety profiles. 
  • LMSWorks – Track your team’s training and offer professional fire/EMS recertification in-house. 

 

In conclusion, the challenges faced by fire and EMS officials require sophisticated solutions that match the urgency of their work. EPR Systems provides an all-in-one system that is easily accessible and customized to fit the needs of your agency. By providing streamlined communication, real-time data sharing, and seamless documentation, our suite of products empowers fire and EMS officials to carry out their vital roles with precision, speed, and effectiveness.  

 

firefighter in scene

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Revolutionizing Firefighting Operations: Introducing StaffWorks – Your Ultimate Scheduling and Communication Solution https://eprsystems.com/introducing-staffworks/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=introducing-staffworks https://eprsystems.com/introducing-staffworks/#respond Sun, 06 Aug 2023 12:08:12 +0000 https://eprsystems.com/?p=6016 Revolutionizing Firefighting Operations: Introducing StaffWorks – Your Ultimate Scheduling and Communication Solution In the fast-paced and high-stakes world of firefighting, efficient scheduling and resource management are paramount. Every second counts when it comes to saving lives and protecting property. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce StaffWorks, our groundbreaking scheduling software designed specifically for firefighters. We […]

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Revolutionizing Firefighting Operations:
Introducing StaffWorks - Your Ultimate Scheduling and Communication Solution

In the fast-paced and high-stakes world of firefighting, efficient scheduling and resource management are paramount. Every second counts when it comes to saving lives and protecting property. That’s why we are thrilled to introduce StaffWorks, our groundbreaking scheduling software designed specifically for firefighters. We adopted this innovative solution to overcome the complexities of scheduling and time tracking, ensuring optimal staffing levels, and seamless communication. 

Optimizing Staffing: 

One of the key challenges faced by fire departments is ensuring adequate staffing. StaffWorks offers a comprehensive solution to this issue by giving your workforce complete shift management capabilities. Track shift exchanges, manage shift bids and assignments, simplify swaps by recording requests and approvals, and track banked hours owed between staff members. StaffWorks takes into account factors such as sick days, vacation days, and accrual rates, ensuring that the right personnel are assigned to the right shifts. This optimized staffing software greatly enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of firefighting operations. 

Streamlined Communication: 

Effective communication is the backbone of any successful firefighting operation. StaffWorks recognizes this critical aspect and provides a centralized platform for streamlined communication among team members. Firefighters can use the software to easily access shift details, view updates, and communicate with their colleagues, ensuring everyone is on the same page. The software also facilitates instant notifications and alerts, keeping firefighters informed about any changes in real-time. Such seamless communication capabilities foster collaboration and promote rapid response, ultimately saving valuable time during critical situations. 

Enhanced Time and Resource Management: 

Managing the limited resources available to fire departments is a constant challenge. StaffWorks offers several features to optimize time and resource management. The software automates various administrative tasks, such as shift swaps and time-off requests, reducing paperwork and allowing more time for core operational activities. Additionally, StaffWorks saves your department valuable time with our hassle-free time tracking features. Overtime is automatically calculated based on your department’s policy or FLSA standards, eliminating the need for manual calculation. Streamline scheduling and give your volunteer or part-time workforce the ability to submit their availability by bidding on open shifts or by signing up for a specific shift. 

In the ever-evolving landscape of firefighting, where efficiency and effectiveness are crucial, StaffWorks offers a powerful solution, addressing the unique needs of fire departments, optimizing staffing levels, streamlining communication, and empowering data-driven decision-making. By adopting StaffWorks, fire departments can significantly enhance their operational efficiency, response times, and ultimately, the safety of their firefighters and the communities they protect.  

EPR Systems, StaffWorks is an easy to use, powerful solution for managing the complex scheduling needs of emergency response agencies. Let us help you powerfully leverage knowledge in your agency and for your community. Take a tour of our products and schedule a demo with our team. As you get to know us, you’ll realize we’re not just another software company—we’re family. 

staff works

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Business Intelligence Software that Helps Fire Departments to “Crunch” NFIRS Data https://eprsystems.com/business-intelligence-software-that-helps-fire-departments-to-crunch-nfirs-data/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=business-intelligence-software-that-helps-fire-departments-to-crunch-nfirs-data https://eprsystems.com/business-intelligence-software-that-helps-fire-departments-to-crunch-nfirs-data/#respond Sun, 19 Jun 2022 19:42:14 +0000 https://eprsystems.com/?p=2219 BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE SOFTWARE THAT HELPS FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO “CRUNCH” NFIRS DATA A few months ago, Robert Avsec, Executive Fire Officer wrote an article for this space entitled Data Matters for Fire Departments across the U.S. where he discussed the importance of data collection for the present and future success of the fire service, and particularly data transmission […]

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BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE SOFTWARE THAT HELPS
FIRE DEPARTMENTS TO "CRUNCH" NFIRS DATA

A few months ago, Robert Avsec, Executive Fire Officer wrote an article for this space entitled Data Matters for Fire Departments across the U.S. where he discussed the importance of data collection for the present and future success of the fire service, and particularly data transmission to the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS).

Of equal importance was the discussion about the fire service becoming better at retrieving data from NFIRS and turning it into useful information. Information to be used for data-driven decision-making. One of his former mentors, Deputy Chief (Ret.) Jim Graham of the Chesterfield County (VA) Fire and EMS Department, was a huge proponent for the use of information whether on a fire ground operation or developing a new training program or addressing budget reductions. One “Graham-ism” he always remember is this: “We’re drowning in data, but starving for information.” —Deputy Chief (Ret.) Jim Graham.

NFIRS BI & ISO Reporting Tool

Retrieving and using NFIRS data can seem like trying to get a drink from a fire hose. Wouldn’t it be great to have the right tool to get that data “flow” down to “drinking fountain” size?

Enter the NFIRS Business Intelligence (BI) and ISO Reporting Tool from EPR Fireworks. This analytics tool gives you and your organization the ability to “crunch” NFIRS data more effectively and efficiently.

The tool can also generate NFPA 1710 ISO audit reports straight from the EPR Fireworks NFIRS Data Analysis system.

Some of Its Key Features

The system uses an interactive web dashboard that gives users the ability to quickly and easily create reports, data visualizations, and charts that can be exported to multiple formats.

View data for any incidents from nearly any web-based platform. Users can view incident data in a Chart “drill down” from graph display to the actual incident report and more.

You’re always using current data because the system is updated regularly with dynamic incident data that is fed into tables. The frequency of updates varies based on the type of data.

So, what you wind up with is information that can used to make better, well-informed decisions, i.e., data-driven decision-making. The user can locate key performance indicators, analyze and recognize trends and data anomalies, and present the information in an easy-to-show and insightful graphic chart break down.

The BI tool helps the fire department become more data focused, analyzing information quickly and easily, monitoring escalating strategic issues—from damage by incident to false alarm tracking–and turning this BIG data into added value insights.

The data can be used by the fire departments to:

Drilling for Data

The BI analytics tool has an intuitive user interface that makes data mining a breeze. You’ll be able to see fire incidents and markers for a given geographical area. By clicking on any individual marker, the user has access to all the NFIRS data for that location and incident. Additional screens can provide the history of emergency events at that location, inspection history, code violation history, etc., for that location and occupancy.

Pictures, not numbers

If a picture is worth more than a thousand words, how much would a picture of your NFIRS data be worth at that next budget presentation before the Town Council? With the BI analytics tool, you can easily create greater value from the substantial amounts of data collected to meet NFIRS requirements by turning it into information—like eye-catching charts and graphs you’ll have for that Council meeting.

Benchmarking made easy

Using the BI tool, you can easily make comparisons between your fire incident information and other relevant fire departments, regionally, state-wide, even nation-wide. Because the data is national!

It’s easy to generate your department’s benchmarking activities with greater ease using the BI analytics tool. Using the data that fire departments across the country submit to NFIRS, you’ll have the ability to compare your fire department’s performance data to other departments in your region, your state, or across the country. No longer will you have to request benchmarking data from other fire departments, wait for them to collect it, and wait for them to send it to you. Only to find out it wasn’t the data you really need!

You can make well-informed decisions; identify key performance metrics, to help manage manpower and resources more efficiently.

The BI and ISO analytic tool can help you and your fire department to turn the big data into value-added insights to fight fires with facts.

Fire Service Accreditation

EPR FireWorks gives your department the ability to produce many of the reports needed for departments seeking accreditation as well as “sweet spot” heat maps for incidents and response times!

A heat map is a two-dimensional representation of data in which values are represented by colors. They use color to communicate relationships between data values that would be would be much harder to understand if presented numerically in a spreadsheet.

Many data focused departments are seeking fire service accreditation and spend hundreds of hours digging through their NFIRS data trying to find data “sweet spots”, i.e., nuggets of information that jumps right at you. Departments can set up their own performance benchmarks (like for response times) in the system and the map will change accordingly. With just a few mouse clicks using the Analytics system from EPR FireWorks the system would pay for itself in staff time saved alone!

All this value from NFIRS files.

Setting up the system is a SNAP. EPR’s Business Intelligence and ISO Reporting Tool can produce 26 reports needed for CFAI Accreditation and ISO auditing, including the NFPA 1710 response report, all with a simple mouse click.

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3 Critical Reasons Why Your Fire Department Needs New Software https://eprsystems.com/3-critical-reasons-why-your-fire-department-needs-new-software/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=3-critical-reasons-why-your-fire-department-needs-new-software https://eprsystems.com/3-critical-reasons-why-your-fire-department-needs-new-software/#respond Sun, 19 Jun 2022 19:33:07 +0000 https://eprsystems.com/?p=2202 3 CRITICAL REASONS WHY YOUR FIRE DEPARTMENT NEEDS NEW SOFTWARE Fire departments provide a critical service to the communities they serve. At the core of your daily fire department operations is the software that you use to manage data, document relevant information and generate reports that you can provide to assess needs and challenges. Studies […]

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3 CRITICAL REASONS WHY YOUR FIRE
DEPARTMENT NEEDS NEW SOFTWARE

Fire departments provide a critical service to the communities they serve. At the core of your daily fire department operations is the software that you use to manage data, document relevant information and generate reports that you can provide to assess needs and challenges. Studies have shown that many fire departments are struggling with software that doesn’t effectively serve or support their operations. In order to be more successful, secure more funding and reduce frustration, it’s paramount that you have the right roles and resources. Here are three critical reasons why your Fire Department needs new software so that they can be as safe and efficient as possible.

1) Inadequate reporting tools can slow you down

People in your organization will hate it if you implement a software tool that makes reporting and analytics too difficult. If they have to report information in multiple places, frequently handle data loss or duplication and spend hours generating reports it can lead to human error, frustration and overall lack of efficiency in your department. A good fire department RMS should allow anyone in your organization to quickly generate reports using simple, easy-to-use tools.

2) Poor user interface can be confusing

There’s nothing worse than a poor user interface. You need to be able to navigate quickly through data in a way that is intuitive. Oftentimes a bad user interface can lead to mistakes being made that are costly in both time and clarity. In the modern world in which we live with so many tools at our disposal it makes sense to have tools for your department that are modern, keeping up with the times and take user experience into consideration. If your current RMS offers an outdated look and confusing interface it’s a big red flag that it’s time to move on. 

3) No useful data in sight

If you’re running an outdated version of RMS software, you could be missing out on a wealth of data that can help make your department more efficient. By upgrading to a new system, you can access new features and tools that will allow you to make informed decisions about future growth and development. These features allow departments to get much better insights into how well they’re performing in terms of key metrics such as response times and processing efficiency.

More importantly with good insight into your data you can see a clearer larger picture which will allow you to identify trends, potential future problems and reduce stress when it comes time to submit end of year reporting or comply with regulatory requirements. 

Ultimately we are lucky enough to live in an era where technology can facilitate manual tasks, present helpful data and minimize the amount of effort required for tracking patterns. Your fire department software should make use of the tools available to create easy and intelligent data, facilitate the acquisition of information and provide comprehensive reports. These features coupled with great customer service when you need help will significantly amplify the success of your fire department.

If you are currently struggling with any of the items listed above, EPR can absolutely help you. With 20+ years of experience and an All-in-One comprehensive platform we provide a software that is fully customizable and a stellar support team to help you operate your department with no headaches.

 
 

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4 Signs it’s Time to Break up with your RMS https://eprsystems.com/4-signs-its-time-to-break-up-with-your-rms/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=4-signs-its-time-to-break-up-with-your-rms https://eprsystems.com/4-signs-its-time-to-break-up-with-your-rms/#respond Mon, 16 May 2022 09:38:35 +0000 https://eprsystems.com/?p=1 REST ASSURED, WE’VE NEVER LOST ANY DATA WHILE MIGRATING FROM ANY PLATFORM TO OURS It’s easy to get comfortable with the most frequently used piece of technology in your office, even if it’s not the best one available to you. However, with so many different RMS options on the market today, you may be surprised […]

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REST ASSURED, WE'VE NEVER LOST ANY DATA
WHILE MIGRATING FROM ANY PLATFORM TO OURS

It’s easy to get comfortable with the most frequently used piece of technology in your office, even if it’s not the best one available to you. However, with so many different RMS options on the market today, you may be surprised to find that there are new and better systems out there waiting to take over your management needs. Here are four signs that it’s time to break up with your current RMS vendor and start using something that will help your business grow instead of dragging it down.

1) Your current vendor is expiring

You may have been a loyal customer for years, but if you don’t see a future with your vendor, don’t be afraid to move on. You may want to ask yourself:

In today’s market, company acquisitions are a common occurrence; mostly for the benefit of the vendor.  Make sure you are looking out for a stable vendor who has experience, and is able to continue to support your department for years to come.

2) Constant issues

One of the most common reasons to leave a relationship with your vendor is because of constant issues. If there are constant problems with your RMS, such as frequent crashes or lack of functionality, then it might be time for you and your vendor to part ways. 

In today’s day and age, it’s not unreasonable to expect more than ever out of their digital experience. You should be able to readily access data, generate reports and receive prompt customer service.

3) Data is unintelligible and hard to access

If you have invested in a good deal of data, but can’t make sense of it, then you may need to update or upgrade your solution. Also, if your company is growing and scaling quickly, data access should be part of that growth. If access has become difficult as you’ve grown larger and acquired more users within an organization, then a new RMS will give you flexibility to meet these changing needs.

4) Hidden charges

One of the biggest problems with many larger RMS companies is that they will add charges to projects without informing you. Sometimes these are small charges, but sometimes they are quite large. Many customers do not even realize that these extra charges have been tacked on until months later when they get their final invoice. If you notice a sudden price increase on an item and cannot explain where those additional costs came from, make sure to contact your sales rep for an explanation!

Ultimately there’s many red flags that indicate it’s time to break up with current RMS, noting the signs early can save you time and frustration.

  

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